How To Get Relief From Nasal Congestion & Sinus Problems

What is nasal congestion?

Nasal congestion is when your nose feels blocked up or stuffy or sometimes you feel liquid or mucus running down the back of your throat, especially when you first get up. It can be hard to breathe through your nose and you might find it’s easier to breathe through your mouth. At night, nasal congestion may make it difficult for you to get to sleep or stay asleep all night. Or you may snore and keep every one else awake and this can be very frustrating!

Any blockage in one or both of the nasal passages makes breathing through these passage ways more difficult, making it necessary for you to breathe through your mouth, which can result in a condition known as dry mouth or xerostomia.

Xerostomia can lead to an increase in dental caries, gingivitis (gum disease), periodontal disease and glossitis which is a condition which causes redness, swelling or inflammation and pain of the tongue.

2 simple ways to relieve nasal congestion

Nasal congestion is a common symptom of many conditions, such as colds and allergy, but is easily managed. Here are 2 simple solutions:

1. Use a saline spray and this will help clear the sinuses. You can either use a spray or a neti pot, which is like a miniature watering can, using warm salty water to wash the sinuses. This practice has been used for thousands of years.
2. Stop eating anything with gluten in it (wheat, oats, rye and barley). By not eating anything with gluten in it for 4 days you will soon see if this is your allergy.

I find most people who come to me with congested nasal airways usually find that gluten is the problem. As you only have to do this for a short time to see the relief it is worth a try. During this time it is best to just eat fresh food and be very careful with reading labels. Do not kid yourself that eating just a little bit of gluten will not hurt, as it will continue to irritate and inflame your airways…

I hope this helps. Remember if the problem persists ring me for an appointment on (02) 4970 4333 or see your local naturopath.

Cheers,
Fay Rayner